U.S. patent number 8,020,828 [Application Number 12/069,219] was granted by the patent office on 2011-09-20 for wedge lock anchor mount.
Invention is credited to Jeffrey D. Carnevali.
United States Patent |
8,020,828 |
Carnevali |
September 20, 2011 |
Wedge lock anchor mount
Abstract
An anchor mount formed of: a mounting device; a laterally
expandable locking mechanism coupled to the base of the mounting
device, the laterally expandable locking mechanism including first
and second cooperating wedges, the first wedge being coupled to the
base of the mounting device, and the second wedge being movable
along an inclined plane of mutual contact with the first wedge and
substantially laterally expandable relative thereto; a reaction
surface fixed relative to the first wedge; an actuator having an
actuation surface that is positioned adjacent to the reaction
surface and movable relative thereto; and the second wedge being
responsive to motion of the actuation surface of the actuator
relative to the reaction surface for moving along the inclined
plane of mutual contact with the first wedge and substantially
laterally expanding relative thereto.
Inventors: |
Carnevali; Jeffrey D. (Seattle,
WA) |
Family
ID: |
46330114 |
Appl.
No.: |
12/069,219 |
Filed: |
February 8, 2008 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20080138152 A1 |
Jun 12, 2008 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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11118734 |
Apr 29, 2005 |
7802768 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
248/412; 248/413;
403/374.4; 248/407; 403/370 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16M
11/28 (20130101); F16M 13/00 (20130101); F16B
7/1418 (20130101); F16M 11/2014 (20130101); F16M
11/14 (20130101); F16B 13/0891 (20130101); F16M
2200/068 (20130101); Y10T 403/7056 (20150115); F16M
2200/024 (20130101); Y10T 403/7075 (20150115); Y10T
403/7069 (20150115); F16M 2200/027 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
F16M
11/00 (20060101); F16B 2/14 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;403/370,374.1,374.2,367,109.5,409.1 ;280/415.1 ;74/551.1
;248/125.8,161,188.5,412,407,413,22.14,224.7 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Le; Tan
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Rupnick; Charles J.
Parent Case Text
This application is a Continuation-in-part and claims priority
benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/118,734 filed in the
name of Jeffrey D. Carnevali on Apr. 29, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No.
7,802,768, the complete disclosures of which are both incorporated
herein by reference.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An anchor mount, comprising: a mounting device; a laterally
expandable locking mechanism coupled to a base of the mounting
device, the laterally expandable locking mechanism comprising first
and second cooperating wedges, at least one of the first and second
cooperating wedges further comprising a keyway recessed into an
outer surface thereof, the first wedge being coupled to the base of
the mounting device, and the second wedge being movable along an
inclined plane of mutual contact with the first wedge and
substantially laterally expandable relative thereto; a reaction
surface fixed relative to the first wedge; an actuator comprising
an actuation surface that is positioned adjacent to the reaction
surface and movable relative thereto; the second wedge being
responsive to motion of the actuation surface of the actuator
relative to the reaction surface for moving along the inclined
plane of mutual contact with the first wedge and substantially
laterally expanding relative thereto; and a substantially rigid key
extended between the first and second wedges and received into the
recessed keyway.
2. The anchor mount of claim 1 wherein the motion of the actuation
surface of the actuator relative to the reaction surface further
comprises a rotational motion of the actuator.
3. The anchor mount of claim 2 wherein the laterally expandable
locking mechanism further comprises a threaded drive coupled to the
actuator and operable thereby about a longitudinal axis thereof
responsively to the rotational motion of the actuator, the second
wedge moving along the inclined plane of mutual contact with the
first wedge and substantially laterally expanding relative thereto
responsively an operation of the threaded drive by the
actuator.
4. The anchor mount of claim 3 wherein the threaded drive further
comprises an elongated threaded coupler engaged with a mating
thread mechanism.
5. The anchor mount of claim 4 wherein the elongated threaded
coupler of the threaded drive further comprises an elongated
threaded fastener, and the mating thread mechanism further
comprises a female thread matched to threads on an end of the
threaded fastener.
6. The anchor mount of claim 5 wherein the elongated threaded
coupler of the threaded drive further comprises the actuator as a
head portion thereof having an undersurface thereof comprising the
actuation surface, and the female thread of the mating thread
mechanism further comprises a female thread substantially
nonrotationally coupled to the second wedge.
7. The anchor mount of claim 5, further comprising a rotational
slip mechanism between the mounting device and a portion of the
first wedge opposite from the inclined plane of mutual contact with
the second wedge; and wherein: the mounting device further
comprises the female thread of the mating thread mechanism, the
actuator and the actuation surface, wherein the actuation surface
is formed on a first side of the rotational slip mechanism; the
first wedge further comprises the reaction surface opposite from
the inclined plane of mutual contact with the second wedge and on a
second side of the rotational slip mechanism opposite from the
actuation surface; and a portion of the elongated threaded coupler
that is spaced away from the end thereof having threads thereon is
further substantially nonrotationally coupled to the second
wedge.
8. An anchor mount, comprising: a mounting device comprising a
substantially rigid base; and a laterally expandable locking
mechanism comprising: a first wedge comprising a keyway recessed
into an outer surface thereof and being coupled to the base of the
mounting device, a second wedge comprising a keyway recessed into
an outer surface thereof and cooperating with the first wedge and
being slidable along a plane of mutual contact therewith that is
inclined relative to a nominal direction of travel of the second
wedge, a lengthwise drive mechanism that is coupled between the
first and second wedges, and an actuator coupled to a portion of
the lengthwise drive mechanism, a substantially rigid key coupled
between the keyways in the first and second wedges, and wherein the
lengthwise drive mechanism is further responsive to operation of
the actuator for driving the second wedge against the first wedge
along the plane of contact.
9. The anchor mount of claim 8 wherein the operation of the
actuator further comprises a rotational motion of the actuator.
10. The anchor mount of claim 9 wherein the lengthwise drive
mechanism further comprises: an elongated threaded shaft having a
head portion adjacent to a first end thereof and comprising the
actuator, and a male thread adjacent to a second end thereof spaced
away from the head, and a mating female thread substantially
nonrotationally coupled relative to the second wedge.
11. The anchor mount of claim 10, further comprising a rotational
slip mechanism between an actuation surface of the mounting device
and a shoulder portion of the first wedge opposite from the plane
of mutual contact with the second wedge.
12. The anchor mount of claim 11 wherein the head portion of the
elongated threaded coupler is further substantially nonrotationally
coupled to the mounting device.
13. The anchor mount of claim 9, further comprising a rotational
slip mechanism between the base of the mounting device and a
shoulder portion of the first wedge opposite from the plane of
mutual contact with the second wedge; and wherein: the lengthwise
drive mechanism further comprises: an elongated threaded shaft
having a first end thereof substantially nonrotationally coupled to
the second wedge, and a male thread adjacent to a second end
thereof spaced away from the first end, and a mating female thread
mechanism substantially nonrotationally coupled to the mounting
device.
14. An anchor mount, comprising: a mounting device comprising a
substantially rigid base and a reaction surface; and a laterally
expandable locking mechanism coupled to the base of the mounting
device and substantially aligned along a longitudinal axis
substantially perpendicular thereto, the laterally expandable
locking mechanism comprising: a first wedge coupled to the base of
the mounting device and comprising a first outer contact surface
oriented substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis and a
reaction surface inclined relative thereto, and further comprising
a first keyway recessed into the first outer contact surface
thereof, a second wedge cooperating with the first wedge, the
second wedge comprising a second outer contact surface opposite
from the first outer contact surface of the first wedge and
oriented substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis, and a
drive surface inclined relative thereto and substantially
positioned in a cooperating relationship with the inclined reaction
surface of the first wedge and being nominally slidable there along
toward the base of the mounting device and laterally of the
longitudinal axis, and further comprising a second keyway recessed
into the second outer contact surface thereof and substantially
aligned with the first keyway, a substantially rigid key coupled
between the first and second keyways of the respective first and
second wedges, a thread mechanism substantially aligned with the
longitudinal axis, and an actuator comprising an actuation surface
that is positioned adjacent to the reaction surface of the mounting
device opposite from the first wedge, and further comprising a
threaded coupler extended between the actuation surface and the
second wedge and matched to the thread mechanism.
15. The anchor mount of claim 14 wherein the threaded coupler
further comprises an elongated threaded shaft having a head portion
adjacent to a first end thereof and comprising the actuator with an
underside thereof further comprising the actuation surface, and a
male thread adjacent to a second end thereof spaced away from the
head portion, and the thread mechanism further comprises a mating
female thread substantially nonrotationally coupled to the second
wedge.
16. The anchor mount of claim 15 wherein the base of the mounting
device is further substantially nonrotationally coupled to the
first wedge opposite from the inclined reaction surface
thereof.
17. The anchor mount of claim 16 wherein the second wedge further
comprises a nut pocket opposite from the inclined drive surface
thereof; and the mating female thread of the thread mechanism
further comprises a mating nut positioned in the nut pocket.
18. The anchor mount of claim 17 wherein the first wedge further
comprises a shoulder portion opposite from the inclined reaction
surface thereof and adjacent to the base of the mounting
device.
19. The anchor mount of claim 1 wherein each of the first and
second cooperating wedges further comprises a keyway recessed into
an outer surface thereof; and wherein the key is further received
into the keyways of both the first and second wedges.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to trays for holding portable
devices, and in particular to locking trays for holding portable
electronic devices, including lap top computers and other similarly
sized electronics devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Lengthwise locking mechanisms for telescoping pole devices are
generally well known. However, such known lengthwise locking
mechanisms in general tend to fail when any portion of the
telescoping pole is rotated relative to another portion thereof.
Subsequently, the telescoping portions of the pole become unlocked,
and slide one within the other, thereby releasing the locking
mechanism.
Furthermore, it is known to provide mounting platforms that can
accommodate the limited available space normally found in a vehicle
for mounting add-on equipment. These mounting platforms must be
able to handle the load of the accessory device in the vibration
and shock environment encountered in a moving vehicle while still
permitting the accessory device to be quickly and easily installed
in the mounting platform. The mounting platform itself must be
easily and quickly universally adjustable to provide maximum
positional flexibility. The mounting platforms must also
accommodate the various shapes of accessory devices being
installed, while conforming to the limited, generally oddly-shaped
space available in which to mount the platform and the accessory
device. Various mounting platforms are currently in use of
different configurations that mount either on the vehicle's center
console or dash board. However, security of the accessory device
remains uncertain.
Consequently, it is desirable to have improvements in the
lengthwise locking mechanisms of telescoping poles, and in
particular as applied to mounting platforms for accessory
devices.
Additionally, pipe and tube hole plugs are generally well-known.
However, known pipe and tube hole plug apparatus are limited in
their ability to provide efficient and reliable mounting apparatus
external of the plugged pipe or tube.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention overcomes limitations of the prior art by
providing an anchor mounting platform having an internal locking
mechanism for securing the mounting platform relative to a female
receptacle such as a tube or pipe, and a disengaging mechanism for
disengaging the internal locking mechanism and releasing the
platform.
According to one aspect of the invention, the anchor mounting
platform includes a mounting device having a substantially rigid
base and a reaction surface, and a laterally expandable locking
mechanism coupled to the base of the mounting device and
substantially aligned along a longitudinal axis substantially
perpendicular thereto. The laterally expandable locking mechanism
includes: a first wedge coupled to the base of the mounting device
and having a first outer contact surface oriented substantially
parallel with the longitudinal axis and a reaction surface inclined
relative thereto; a second wedge cooperating with the first wedge,
the second wedge having a second outer contact surface opposite
from the first outer contact surface of the first wedge and
oriented substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis, and a
drive surface inclined relative thereto and substantially
positioned in a cooperating relationship with the inclined reaction
surface of the first wedge and being nominally slidable there along
toward the base of the mounting device and laterally of the
longitudinal axis; a thread mechanism substantially aligned with
the longitudinal axis; and an actuator having an actuation surface
that is positioned adjacent to the reaction surface of the mounting
device opposite from the first wedge, and further including a
threaded coupler extended between the actuation surface and the
second wedge and matched to the thread mechanism.
According to another aspect of the anchor mounting platform, the
threaded coupler further includes an elongated threaded shaft
having a head portion adjacent to a first end thereof and providing
the actuator with an underside thereof further providing the
actuation surface, and a male thread adjacent to a second end
thereof spaced away from the head portion; and the thread mechanism
further includes a mating female thread substantially
nonrotationally coupled to the second wedge.
According to another aspect of the anchor mounting platform, the
first wedge further includes a first keyway, and the second wedge
further includes a second keyway substantially aligned with the
first keyway; and the anchor mounting platform further includes a
substantially rigid key coupled between the first and second
keyways of the respective first and second wedges.
According to another aspect of the anchor mounting platform, the
base of the mounting device is further substantially
nonrotationally coupled to the first wedge opposite from the
inclined reaction surface thereof.
According to another aspect of the anchor mounting platform, the
second wedge further includes a nut pocket opposite from the
inclined drive surface thereof; and the mating female thread of the
thread mechanism further includes a mating nut positioned in the
nut pocket.
According to another aspect of the anchor mounting platform, the
first wedge further includes a shoulder portion opposite from the
inclined reaction surface thereof and adjacent to the base of the
mounting device.
Other aspects of the invention are detailed herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this
invention will become more readily appreciated as the same becomes
better understood by reference to the following detailed
description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view that illustrates by example and
without limitation the present invention embodied as a telescoping
pole mount;
FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view that illustrates one embodiment of
the telescoping pole mount of the invention;
FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the telescoping pole mount of
the invention that illustrates a male tube member being
repositioned lengthwise of a female tube member;
FIG. 4 is a close-up cross sectional view that illustrates one
embodiment of a lengthwise locking mechanism of the invention;
FIG. 5 is a close-up cross sectional view that illustrates one
embodiment of a lengthwise drive mechanism of the invention for
activating the lengthwise locking mechanism of the invention;
FIG. 6 is a perspective view that illustrates by example and
without limitation one alternative embodiment of the telescoping
pole of the present invention having a double arm mechanism;
FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view that illustrates an alternative
embodiment of the lengthwise locking mechanism of the
invention;
FIG. 8 is a close-up cross sectional view that illustrates one
embodiment of the lengthwise drive mechanism of the invention of
the invention;
FIG. 9 is a close-up cross sectional view that illustrates one
alternative embodiment of the telescoping pole of the present
invention having a double arm mechanism;
FIG. 10 is a close-up cross sectional view that illustrates an
alternative embodiment of a disengaging mechanism of the invention
for disengaging the lengthwise locking mechanism of the
invention;
FIG. 11 is a close-up cross sectional view that illustrates another
alternative embodiment of a disengaging mechanism of the invention
for disengaging the lengthwise locking mechanism of the
invention;
FIG. 12 cross sectional view that illustrates one alternative
embodiment of the telescoping pole mount of the invention having an
alternative embodiment of the lengthwise locking mechanism;
FIGS. 13 and 14 are each cross sectional views that illustrate the
invention embodied as a novel anchor mounting platform, wherein
FIG. 13 illustrates the novel anchor mounting platform having the
cooperating wedges of the laterally expandable lengthwise locking
mechanism structured for operating in a female receptacle having a
square or otherwise rectangular interior wall, and FIG. 14
illustrates the novel anchor mounting platform having the
cooperating wedges of the laterally expandable lengthwise locking
mechanism structured for operating in a pipe, tube or other female
receptacle having a generally cylindrical interior wall;
FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the novel anchor mounting
platform that illustrates another alternative configuration for
restricting the movable farther wedge from turning in the pipe,
tube or other female receptacle regardless of internal wall
configuration;
FIG. 16 is a partial cross-section view taken through a keyway of
the movable farther wedge and, when present, a keyway of the
stationary nearer wedge;
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the novel
anchor mounting platform;
FIG. 18 is an exploded assembly view of the configuration of the
novel anchor mounting platform as embodied in FIG. 17;
FIG. 19 illustrates the novel anchor mounting platform wherein a
female thread mechanism of a threaded drive is alternatively
provided on the movable far wedge by a threaded end of a threaded
coupler being mated with a lengthwise female threaded passage in
the movable farther wedge;
FIG. 20 is an exploded assembly view of the configuration of the
novel anchor mounting platform as embodied in FIG. 19;
FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 each illustrate different embodiments of the
novel anchor mounting platform wherein a slip mechanism is
positioned between respective opposing faces of the base of the
mounting device and a shoulder portion of the stationary nearer
wedge, whereby the threaded drive can be reversed or inverted;
FIG. 23 is an end view of the novel anchor mounting platform
embodied for use in a generally cylindrical pipe, tube or other
female receptacle;
FIG. 24 is a side perspective view of the novel anchor mounting
platform embodied for use in a generally cylindrical pipe, tube or
other female receptacle;
FIGS. 25 and 26 are cross-sectional view of the novel anchor
mounting platform that illustrate an alternative embodiment having
an alternative coupling mechanism provided directly between a base
portion of the mounting device and a shoulder portion of the
stationary wedge for restricting rotation therebetween; and
FIGS. 27 and 28 are exploded assembly views of the configuration of
the alternative novel anchor mounting platform of FIGS. 25 and 26,
wherein FIG. 27 is an upward perspective view of the exploded
assembly of the alternative novel anchor mounting platform, and
FIG. 28 is a downward perspective view of the exploded
assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
In the Figures, like numerals indicate like elements.
FIG. 1 illustrates the present invention by example and without
limitation embodied as a telescoping pole mount 10 having at its
core a telescoping pole 12 formed of an outer female tube 14
standing on a base plate 16, and an inner male tube 18 sized to
slide lengthwise within the female tube 14, as indicated by the
straight arrows, to different lengthwise relative positions. The
relative positions of the female and male tubes 14, 18 of the
telescoping pole 12 are arbitrary and are optionally reversed in a
device that practices the present invention within the scope and
intent of the present invention. A rotatable apparatus or
mechanical arm 20 is mounted on the male tube 18 external to the
female tube 14 and is rotatable about the telescoping pole 12, as
indicated by the curved arrows, without unlocking the female and
male tubes 14, 18.
According to embodiment, the rotatable mechanical arm 20 includes a
hub 22 that rotates completely around the pole 12 on a
substantially planar platform 24 that is optionally fixed
stationary to one end 18a of the male tube 18 that remains external
to the female tube 14. When stationary, the platform 24 is for
example threaded, machined, molded, cast, welded or otherwise
securely fixed to the external end 18a of the male tube 18.
Alternatively, the platform 24 is free to rotate about the
telescoping pole 12, as indicated by the curved arrows, without
unlocking the female and male tubes 14, 18.
According to this embodiment of the invention, the rotatable arm 20
includes an arm 28 that extends away outward from the pole 12. By
example and without limitation, the arm 28 culminates in a ball and
socket mounting apparatus 30 of the type described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,845,885, which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety. For example, the ball and socket mounting apparatus 30
provides a positionable mounting platform 30a extended on a post
30b from a sphere 30c of resiliently compressible material that is
angularly and rotationally positionable between a pair of clamping
arms 30d, 30e that together form a socket 30f that is clamped about
the sphere 30c when a clamping mechanism 30g is engaged and
tightened. The sphere 30c of resiliently compressible material is
captured in the socket 30f by increased tightening of the clamping
mechanism 30g to squeeze together the clamping arms 30d, 30e. The
positionable mounting platform 30a (shown with a pattern of
mounting holes 30h) is optionally structured to any device or
structure of the user's choice.
FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the telescoping pole mount 10
of the invention that illustrates the telescoping pole 12 of the
invention with the male tube 18 locked within the female tube 14 at
a selected elevation by a lengthwise locking mechanism 32.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the lengthwise
locking mechanism 32 is formed by a pair of cooperating wedges 34,
36 that are forced apart laterally by sliding along a sharply
inclined plane of mutual contact 42 that is formed between
respective inclined surfaces 34a, 36a when their combined
lengthwise dimension is forcefully compressed. According to one
embodiment of the invention, the cooperating wedges 34, 36 are
substantially identical in configuration so that a single wedge
form or mold is used to produce both of the pair of cooperating
wedges 34, 36. However, substantial identity between the
cooperating wedges 34, 36 is not necessary and may be eliminated in
a practical application of the invention, as discussed herein
below.
A lengthwise drive mechanism 52 of the invention cooperates with
the lengthwise locking mechanism 32 for driving the cooperating
wedges 34, 36 together along the inclined plane of mutual contact
42. By example and without limitation, the lengthwise drive
mechanism 52 of the invention is configured to pull the inclined
surface 34a of the farther wedge 34 against the inclined surface
36a of the nearer wedge 36 along the inclined plane of mutual
contact 42. According to one embodiment of the invention, the
lengthwise drive mechanism 52 of the invention is configured having
a coupler 38 that is coupled to the farther wedge 34 and extended
past the nearer wedge 36 and through the male tube 18 and beyond
the platform 24 at the male tube's external end 18a. An actuator 40
is coupled to the coupler 38 external of the male tube 18 for
driving the coupler 38 relative to the platform 24. In other words,
the actuator 40 is structured for drawing the farther wedge 34
against the nearer wedge 36 by pulling the coupler 38 along the
male tube 18 toward the platform 24 at the male tube's external end
18a.
By example and without limitation, the coupler 38 is embodied as an
elongated bolt or threaded rod 38 that is extended lengthwise
through the two cooperating wedges 34, 36; the actuator 40 is
embodied as a threaded knob actuator 40 that engages a first
threaded end of the 38a of the coupler 38 external of the male tube
18 beyond the platform 24. Turning the knob actuator 40 against the
external platform 24 pulls the end 38a of the coupler 38 through
the male tube 18, which in turn causes the threaded rod coupler 38
to draw the farther wedge 34 lengthwise along the inside of the
outer female tube 14. Other lengthwise drive mechanisms 52 are also
contemplated for drawing the farther wedge 34 against the nearer
wedge 36 and may be substituted without deviating from the scope
and intent of the invention. For example, a cam and lever are
optionally substituted for the threaded rod coupler 38 and knob
actuator 40 of the lengthwise drive mechanism 52.
At least the threaded end 38a of the rod coupler 38 is extended
external to the male tube 18 and platform 24 by, for example,
passing though a clearance hole 24a through the platform 24 that is
substantially aligned with the center of the male tube 18, and thus
simultaneously substantially centers the rod coupler 38 relative to
both of the surrounding tubes 14, 18. The knob actuator 40 is
provided with a lengthwise bore 40a that is at least partially
formed with an internal female thread 40b matched to male threads
38a formed on the rod coupler 38. Turning the knob actuator 40
pulls the rod coupler 38 through the male tube 18, which
simultaneously draws the farther cooperating wedge 34 lengthwise of
the female tube 14 and against the nearer cooperating wedge 36. The
respective sharply inclined surfaces 34a, 36a of the cooperating
wedges 34, 36 interact along a sharply inclined plane of mutual
contact 42 which forces the cooperating wedges 34, 36 to move
crosswise to one another and laterally of the male tube 18, as
indicated by the outwardly pointing arrows. This relative crosswise
motion drives the cooperating wedges 34, 36 to jam and wedge
laterally against an inner wall 14a of the female tube 14. The
cooperating wedges 34, 36 thus cause the locking mechanism 32 to
fix the male tube 18 lengthwise of the female tube 14.
Reversing the knob actuator 40 lengthens the rod 38 within the male
tube 18 and permits the farther wedge 34 to back away from the
nearer wedge 36 along the plane of contact 42. With the lengthwise
force of the rod coupler 38 removed, the wedges 34, 36 return to
their normal positions central of the female tube 14. The
lengthwise locking mechanism 32 is thereby released, which permits
selective lengthwise adjustment of the male tube 18 relative to the
female tube 14 before re-engaging the locking mechanism 32.
FIG. 3 illustrates, by example and without limitation, the male
tube 18 being repositioned lengthwise of the female tube 14.
FIG. 4 is a close-up view of the cooperating wedges 34, 36 of the
lengthwise locking mechanism 32. A joint 37 is expected to be
formed between the nearer wedge 36 and a second end 18b of the male
tube 18 that remains within the female tube 14. Accordingly, the
nearer wedge 36 is expected to be welded, threaded, swaged, keyed,
pinned or otherwise coupled in a rotationally fixed relationship
with the second end 18b of the male tube 18. By example and without
limitation, the nearer wedge 36 is further formed with a lengthwise
clearance passage 36b that is sized to slidingly pass the rod
coupler 38 therethrough without appreciable interference and yet
simultaneously substantially center the rod coupler 38 relative to
both the wedge 36 and the surrounding tubes 14, 18. However,
frictional forces may adequately substitute for expressly fixing
the nearer wedge 36 relative to the male tube 18.
The farther wedge 34 and the rod coupler 38 are expected to be
mutually structured to be rotationally fixed relative to one
another. By example and without limitation, the wedge 34 is fixed
to a second end 38b of the rod coupler 38 opposite from the first
threaded end 38a. By example and without limitation, the farther
wedge 34 is formed with a lengthwise clearance passage 34b that is
sized to slidingly pass the rod coupler 38 therethrough, but is
undersized relative to the oversized head 38b of the rod coupler
38. According to one embodiment of the invention, the farther wedge
34 and the oversized head 38b of the rod coupler 38 are structured
in a mutually cooperative manner as to keep the rod coupler 38 from
turning relative to the farther wedge 34. For example, the
oversized rod head 38b is square or hex shaped and is sized to fit
with a mating square or hex shaped socket 34c in the farther wedge
34 opposite from the incline surface 34a. According to one
embodiment of the invention, the oversized head 38b is a nut, such
as a locking nut, that is threaded onto the rod coupler 38 at the
second end 38b opposite from the first end 38a. Alternatively, the
wedge 34 is welded, threaded, swaged, keyed, pinned or otherwise
coupled in a rotationally fixed relationship with the rod coupler
38, whereby the oversized head 38b may be eliminated. Any suitable
structure for coupling the rod coupler 38 in a rotationally fixed
relationship with the farther wedge 34 may be substituted without
deviating from the scope and intent of the invention. Additionally,
although the farther wedge 34 and the rod coupler 38 are expected
to include such structure for being mutually rotationally fixed,
frictional forces may adequately substitute for expressly fixing
the farther wedge 34 relative to the rod coupler 38.
The nearer wedge 36 is optionally provided with a socket 36c
opposite from the inclined surface 36a to be consistent with the
optional identity of the two wedges 34, 36. However, as discussed
above, substantial identity between the cooperating wedges 34, 36
is not necessary. Therefore, the socket 36c may be eliminated in
practice of the invention.
Turning the knob actuator 40 pulls the rod coupler 38 through the
male tube 18 and draws the oversized head 38b of the rod coupler 38
toward the nearer wedge 36, which in turn draws the farther
cooperating wedge 34 lengthwise along the inside of the outer
female tube 14 and against the nearer cooperating wedge 36. Upon
contact, the respective sharply inclined surfaces 34a, 36a of the
cooperating wedges 34, 36 interact along an inclined plane of
contact 42. The nearer wedge 36 cannot retreat relative to the male
tube 18 that is strong enough to resist the stress in the rod
coupler 38. Therefore, the continued action of the knob actuator 40
through the rod coupler 38 forcefully draws the farther wedge 34 to
move along the plane of contact 42 crosswise to the nearer wedge 36
and laterally of the male tube 18, as indicated by the outward
pointing arrows. According to one embodiment of the invention, the
cooperating wedges 34, 36 are both sized to slide within the female
tube 14 with little clearance. Therefore, crosswise and lateral
motion drives the cooperating wedges 34, 36 to jam and wedge
against an inner wall 14a of the female tube 14. The cooperating
wedges 34, 36 thus cause the locking mechanism 32 to fix the male
tube 18 lengthwise of the female tube 14.
Reverse turning of the knob actuator 40 reverses the rod coupler 38
into the male tube 18 and permits the farther wedge 34 to back away
from the nearer wedge 36 along the plane of contact 42. With the
lengthwise tension of the rod coupler 38 thus relieved, both wedges
34, 36 return to their normal positions central of the female tube
14. The lengthwise locking mechanism 32 is thus released, which
permits selective adjustment of the male tube 18 relative to the
female tube 14.
According to one embodiment of the invention, one or both the
female and male tubes 14, 18 are round. Accordingly, they may be
mutually rotatable so the apparatus or arm 20 can be rotated about
the telescoping pole 12 even if it is fixed to the external end 18a
of the male tube 18. Engaging the lengthwise locking mechanism 32
additionally secures the tubes 14, 18 against mutual rotation while
simultaneously fixing the length or extension of the telescoping
pole 12.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the female and male
tubes 14, 18 are formed with cooperating shapes, such as mating
square or hex shapes, so that they are substantially restricted
against mutual rotation by their cooperating shapes. Accordingly,
engaging the lengthwise locking mechanism 32 merely fixes the
relative lengthwise positions of the tubes 14, 18 for fixing the
length or extension of the telescoping pole 12.
Re-engaging the locking mechanism 32 fixes the male tube 18 in a
new position relative to the female tube 14, as illustrated by
example and without limitation in FIG. 3.
Also illustrated here is one exemplary embodiment of the invention
for overcoming the disengagement resistance of prior art wedge
mechanisms. In prior art devices, a sharp rap or other activation
must be applied to disengage prior art wedge mechanisms from their
interlocked relationship because they became so effectively jammed
against one another and the wall of the tubes.
According to one embodiment of the invention, a disengaging
mechanism 43 is provided for disengaging the wedges 34, 36 from
their interlocked relationship. As illustrated here, the
disengaging mechanism 43 is embodied as a strong compression spring
44 for disengaging the wedges 34, 36, for example by pushing the
farther wedge 34 away from the nearer wedge 36. For example, the
compression spring 44 is positioned between the cooperating wedges
34, 36. By example and without limitation, the wedges 34, 36 are
formed with respective lengthwise hollow cavities 34d, 36d that
communicate with one another along the plane of contact 42. The
compression spring 44 is compressed to fit into the communicating
cavities 34d, 36d. The spring 44 is sized having an uncompressed
length that is longer than a combined length of the communicating
lengthwise cavities 34d, 36d in the respective wedges 34, 36. When
the farther wedge 34 is drawn against the nearer wedge 36, the
compression spring 44 is compressed within the lengthwise cavities
34d, 36d between their opposing respective floor portions 34e, 36e.
However, when effectively compressed, the compressed length of the
spring 44 does not interfere with engagement of the inclined wedge
surfaces 34a, 36a along the plane of contact 42 and consequent
lateral spreading of the wedges 34, 36 during engagement of the
locking mechanism 32.
Upon relief of the lengthwise tension of the rod coupler 38,
expansion spring force in the compressed spring 44 operates against
the opposing floor portions 34e, 36e of the wedge lengthwise
cavities 34d, 36d. The expansion spring force operates to push
apart and disengage the two interacting wedges 34, 36 to release
the lengthwise locking mechanism 32. The expansion force in the
spring 44 is sufficiently strong that, when the tension in the
lengthwise rod coupler 38 is relieved, decompression and expansion
of the spring 44 overcomes the jamming force that holds the wedges
34, 36 against the inner wall 14a of the female tube 14.
Disengagement from the tube inner wall 14a permits the wedges 34,
36 to return to their normal positions central of the female tube
14 where they slide freely. The lengthwise locking mechanism 32 is
released, and the male tube 18 is free to be repositioned relative
to the female tube 14.
FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a lengthwise drive mechanism
52 of the invention for drawing the rod coupler 38 through the male
tube 18 and pulling the farther wedge 34 against the nearer wedge
36 along the inclined plane of contact 42. By example and without
limitation, lengthwise drive mechanism 52 of the invention is
provided as the knob actuator 40. According to one embodiment of
the invention by example and without limitation, the knob actuator
40 is provided with a lengthwise bore 40a having an internal female
thread 40b that is attached to male threads formed on the threaded
end 38a of the rod coupler 38 opposite from the oversized head 38b.
Alternatively, the rod coupler 38 is optionally so threaded for
substantially its entire length. Turning the knob actuator 40
causes a contact surface 40c of the knob actuator 40 to act against
the external platform 24 to draw the threaded rod coupler 38
through the platform 24 and pulls it through the male tube 18, as
discussed herein. According to different embodiments of the
invention, the knob actuator 40 alternatively works either directly
against a contact surface 24b of the platform 24 (shown in
subsequent Figures), or through the intervening hub 22 of the
rotatable arm 20 (shown here).
The hub 22 of the rotatable arm 20 is structured to rotate about
the telescoping pole 12 even while the lengthwise locking mechanism
32 is fully engaged for fixing the female and male tubes 14, 18
relative to one another. The inventor of the present invention has
determined through experimentation that, without an interface
structure between the threaded knob actuator 40 and the platform 24
for decoupling rotations of the rotatable arm 20 from the knob
contact surface 40c, the threaded knob actuator 40 invariably
loosens on the threaded rod end 38a when the arm 20 is rotated in
the thread direction. Loosening of the knob actuator 40 relieves
the tension in the rod coupler 38 and releases the lengthwise
locking mechanism 32. The inner male tube 18 is then able to move
freely within the outer female tube 14. Such loosening of the
threaded knob actuator 40 and consequent release of the lengthwise
locking mechanism 32 defeats the purpose of structuring the
mechanical arm 20 to rotate about the telescoping pole 12.
By example and without limitation, one exemplary embodiment a
decoupling mechanism 45 of the invention is illustrated for
decoupling rotation of the rotatable mechanical arm 20 from the
actuator knob's contact surface 40c and thereby overcoming the
loosening of the lengthwise locking mechanism 32. A thrust bearing
46 is installed to interface between the contact surface 40c of the
threaded knob actuator 40 and the contact surface 24b of the
platform 24. When the rotatable mechanical arm 20 is installed
between the threaded knob actuator 40 and platform 24, as shown,
the thrust bearing 46 is interfaced between the actuator knob's
contact surface 40c and a first contact surface 22a of the
presentation platform's hub 22. The thrust bearing 46 decouples the
rotational drive of the hub's contact surface 22a from the actuator
knob's contact surface 40c. The thrust bearing 46 thus permits the
hub 22 to rotate in either direction about the telescoping pole 12
without affecting the firmly threaded relationship between the rod
end 38a and the threaded knob actuator 40. The thrust bearing 46
is, by example and without limitation, any form of conventional
thrust bearing, including a pin thrust bearing, a roller thrust
bearing, and a ball thrust bearing. For example, the thrust bearing
46 is structured of a quantity of hardened pins, rollers or balls
46a evenly distributed within a cage 46b between a pair of smooth
plates or washers 46c. The washers 46c interface with the different
contact surfaces 22a, 40c of the hub 22 and knob actuator 40,
respectively. The hardened pins, rollers or balls 46a interface
between the opposing washers 46c. According to one embodiment of
the invention, the thrust bearing 46 includes a clearance passage
46d central of the cage 46b and washers 46c that admits passage of
the threaded rod coupler 38 therethrough and that simultaneously
serves to center the thrust bearing 46 within its space between the
hub 22 and the threaded knob actuator 40 and to retain it in
position during operation.
The thrust washer 46 has been determined to support any load that
can be generated between the respective hub and knob interface
surfaces 22a and 40c. Intervention of the thrust washer 46 has been
determined to effectively decouple rotations of the rotatable
mechanical arm 20 from the knob contact surface 40c such that the
threaded knob actuator 40 invariably retains its threaded
relationship with the threaded rod end 38a when the mechanical arm
20 is rotated in any direction, including the thread direction. The
novel thrust bearing 46 interfaced between the actuator knob's
contact surface 40c and the hub's contact surface 22a thus permits
relative rotation of the mechanical arm 20, while the integrity of
the threaded relationship between the rod end 38a and knob actuator
40 is maintained and effectiveness of the locking mechanism 32
remains uncompromised.
An optional bushing 48 may be interfaced between a second opposite
contact surface 22b of the hub 22 portion of the rotatable
mechanical arm 20 and the stationary platform's contact surface 24b
for easing rotation of the mechanical arm 20 relative to the
platform 24. For example, the bushing 48 is formed in a thick
washer shape having a central passage 48a for clearance of the rod
coupler 38. The bushing 48 is formed of a conventional material,
such as nylon, Teflon.RTM., or Delrin.RTM., or another bushing
material. Alternatively, another thrust bearing 46 is substituted
for the bushing 48 between the hub's second contact surface 22b and
the platform's contact surface 24b.
Alternatively, a bushing formed of a non-conventional bushing
material is substituted for the bushing 48. Such non-conventional
bushing material is a low durometer "spongy" material, whereby the
bushing 48 is substantially resiliently compressible. Furthermore,
the non-conventional low durometer bushing material also has a
"sticky" surface with a high coefficient of friction. Accordingly,
the low durometer material causes bushing 48 to resiliently
compress between the hub 22 and the platform's contact surface 24b,
while the high coefficient of friction surface causes bushing 48 to
stick therebetween so that the mechanical arm 20 is frictionally
constrained from rotation relative to the platform 24.
Also illustrated is a clearance passage 22c through the hub 22 that
is sized to pass the threaded rod coupler 38 and thereby retain
alignment of the rotatable mechanical arm 20 relative to the
telescoping pole 12 during rotation thereabout.
FIG. 6 illustrates the telescoping pole 12 of the present invention
alternatively embodied as having a first one of the threaded knob
actuators 40 alternatively positioned to work against the platform
24, without intervention of the rotatable mechanical arm 20, for
operating the lengthwise locking mechanism 32 and thereby fixing
the elevation of the telescoping pole 12. Here the male tube 18 and
the optionally stationary platform 24 fixed on its exterior end 18a
together can be rotated relative to the telescoping pole 12 while
the locking mechanism 32 is relaxed, when one or both of the tubes
14, 18 are round. However, when the locking mechanism 32 is
engaged, the optionally stationary platform 24 is fixed to the male
tube 18 so that it is not rotatable relative to the telescoping
pole 12, as contrasted with the rotation of the mechanical arm 20
relative to the platform 24. Therefore, only a common flat washer
50 is provided for interfacing between the first knob actuator's
contact surface 40c and the platform's contact surface 24b for
easing turning of the knob actuator 40. According to one embodiment
of the invention, the decoupling mechanism 45 of the invention is
optionally interfaced between the first actuator knob's contact
surface 40c and the stationary platform's contact surface 24b for
further easing turning of the knob actuator 40. For example, either
the thrust bearing 46 or bushing 48 is optionally interfaced
between the first actuator knob's contact surface 40c and the
stationary platform's contact surface 24b. However, the thrust
bearing 46 and bushing 48 interfaces are unnecessary because the
platform 24 is fixed to the male tube 18 so that it is not
rotatable relative to the telescoping pole 12 as contrasted with
the rotation of the rotatable mechanical arm 20 relative to the
platform 24. Therefore, no opportunity is presented for loosening
the knob actuator 40 on the threaded rod end 38a through rotation
of the intervening platform 24.
As illustrated here, the platform 24 is enlarged relative to
embodiments illustrated in previous figures, and the rotatable
mechanical arm 20 is positioned remotely from the telescoping pole
12. When the telescoping pole 12 has been extended to a selected
elevation and fixed by operation of the lengthwise locking
mechanism 32, as detailed in subsequent figures, the mechanical arm
20 is rotatable relative to the enlarged platform 24 at its remote
position from the telescoping pole 12. A lengthwise clamping
mechanism 54 fixes the rotatable hub 22 firmly against the platform
24 so that the rotatable mechanical arm 20 neither tips nor wobbles
when loaded, yet the mechanical arm 20 is fully rotatable relative
to the platform 24. According to one embodiment of the invention,
the lengthwise clamping mechanism 54 includes a second decoupling
mechanism 45 of the invention for decoupling rotation of the
rotatable mechanical arm 20 and thereby overcoming the loosening of
the lengthwise clamping mechanism 54.
Optionally, another bushing 48 may be interfaced between the second
opposite contact surface 22b of the hub 22 of the rotatable
mechanical arm 20 and the stationary platform's contact surface 24b
for easing rotation of the mechanical arm 20 relative to the
platform 24.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the platform 24 is
rotatable relative to the end 18a of the male tube 18. Therefore,
the platform 24 is a second rotatable apparatus or mechanical arm
that is mounted on the male tube 18 external to the female tube 14
and is rotatable about the telescoping pole 12, as indicated by the
curved arrows, without unlocking the female and male tubes 14, 18.
According to this embodiment of the invention, the external end 18a
of the male tube 18 is substantially planar such that the platform
24 slides on the tube end 18a for being rotated about the
telescoping pole 12. The rotatability of the platform 24 causes the
rotatable apparatus or mechanical arm to be formed of two parts: an
inner arm 24 and the outer arm 20, together a double arm mechanism
47. In other words, the double arm mechanism 47 is formed by inner
arm platform 24 and outer arm 20 that operate as respective upper
arm and forearm of the human anatomy and are interconnected by an
elbow joint that is represented by the hub 22 of the outer arm 20
that is rotatable relative to the enlarged platform 24 at its
remote position from the telescoping pole 12. The shoulder joint is
represented by the enlarged platform 24 that is rotatable relative
to the male tube 18 at the end of the telescoping pole 12. A hand
portion of the two-part mechanical arm is represented by, for
example, the ball and socket mounting apparatus 30 of the type
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,885.
FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the lengthwise
locking mechanism 32 having the knob actuator 40 operating against
the enlarged stationary or optionally rotatable platform 24.
Optionally, the thrust bearing 46 (shown) or the bushing 48 may be
interfaced between the first actuator knob's contact surface 40c
and the stationary platform's contact surface 24b for easing
turning of the first knob actuator 40 for engaging the cooperating
wedges 34, 36 of the lengthwise locking mechanism 32. The
lengthwise locking mechanism 32 operates as discussed herein.
Also illustrated is the lengthwise clamping mechanism 54 for fixing
the rotatable hub 22 firmly against the platform 24 so that the
rotatable mechanical arm 20 neither tips nor wobbles when loaded,
yet permits the mechanical arm 20 to rotate fully relative to the
platform 24.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the lengthwise
clamping mechanism 54 that fixes the rotatable hub 22 firmly
against the platform 24, and simultaneously permits the mechanical
arm 20 to rotate fully relative to the platform 24 is embodied as a
second coupler 38 in cooperation a second actuator 40. A second
decoupling mechanism 45 of the invention is interfaced between the
second actuator knob 40 and the rotatable arm 20 for decoupling
rotation of the rotatable mechanical arm 20 from the second
actuator knob's contact surface 40c and thereby overcoming the
loosening of the lengthwise clamping mechanism 54. For example, a
second thrust bearing 46 is interfaced between the second actuator
40 and the hub 22 of the rotatable arm 20. The second coupler 38 is
extended beyond the enlarged platform 24 remotely from the
telescoping pole 12.
The mechanical arm 20 is rotatable relative to the enlarged
platform 24 by the second coupler 38 passing through the hub 22.
The second actuator 40 is, for example, a second knob that is
threaded onto a threaded end 38a of the second coupler 38 for
securing the hub 22 in such manner as to permit the mechanical arm
20 to rotate about the second coupler 38 relative to the enlarged
platform 24. According to one embodiment of the invention, the
second decoupling mechanism 45 of the invention is embodied as the
second thrust bearing 46 that is interfaced between the second knob
actuator's contact surface 40c and the first contact surface 22a of
the hub 22. The second thrust bearing 46 effectively decouples the
rotational drive of the hub's contact surface 22a from the second
knob actuator's contact surface 40c, which permits the hub 22 to
rotate in either direction about the second coupler 38 without
affecting the threaded relationship between the threaded end 38a of
the second coupler 38 and the second knob actuator 40, i.e.,
without loosening the second knob actuator 40 on the second coupler
38 when the hub 22 is rotated in the thread direction.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the platform 24 and
the remote rotatable mechanical arm 20 together form respective
inner and outer portions of the double arm mechanism 47. The
platform 24 is thus rotatable relative to the end 18a of the male
tube 18, whereby the platform 24 is a second rotatable apparatus or
mechanical arm that is mounted on the male tube 18 external to the
female tube 14 and is rotatable about the telescoping pole 12, as
indicated by the curved arrows, without unlocking the female and
male tubes 14, 18. Accordingly, the platform 24 is structured to
relative to the substantially planar external end 18a of the male
tube 18. For example, when the enlarged platform 24 is rotatable
relative to the end 18a of the male tube 18, it is optionally
formed with a spud 24d for alignment with the male tube 18. The
clearance hole 24a is sufficient to maintain the coupler 38 in
substantial alignment with the platform 24 and the male tube 18 of
the telescoping pole 12.
FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of the lengthwise drive mechanism
52 of the invention of the invention for drawing the length of the
rod coupler 38 through the male tube 18 for pulling the farther
wedge 34 against the nearer wedge 36 along the inclined plane of
mutual contact 42. By example and without limitation, turning the
threaded knob actuator 40 causes the knob actuator's contact
surface 40c to act against the contact surface 24b of the external
platform 24 for drawing the rod coupler 38 through the platform 24
and progressively drawing it through the male tube 18, as discussed
herein. According to different embodiments of the invention, the
knob actuator 40 alternatively works either directly against a
contact surface 24b of the platform 24 (shown here), or through the
intervening hub 22 of the mechanical arm 20 (shown in previous
Figures). Optionally, the decoupling mechanism 45 of the invention
is included as part of the lengthwise drive mechanism 52 for easing
rotation of the threaded knob actuator 40 relative to the contact
surface 24b of the platform 24. For example, the thrust washer 46
optionally interfaces between the knob actuator's contact surface
40c and the stationary platform's contact surface 24b. Optionally,
the bushing 48 may be interfaced between the knob actuator's
contact surface 40c and the stationary platform's contact surface
24b for easing rotation of the threaded knob actuator 40 relative
to the platform's contact surface 24b.
The platform 24 is optionally stationary relative to the end 18a of
the male tube 18.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the platform 24 and
the remote rotatable mechanical arm 20 together form respective
inner and outer portions of the double arm mechanism 47.
Accordingly, the platform 24 is rotatable relative to the end 18a
of the male tube 18, whereby the platform 24 is a second rotatable
apparatus or mechanical arm that is mounted on the male tube 18
external to the female tube 14 and is rotatable about the
telescoping pole 12, as indicated by the curved arrows, without
unlocking the female and male tubes 14, 18. Accordingly, the
platform 24 is structured to relative to the substantially planar
external end 18a of the male tube 18. For example, when the
enlarged platform 24 is rotatable relative to the male tube 18, the
bushing 48 is optionally interfaced between the platform 24 the
male tube end 18a. The bushing 48 is optionally formed with a spud
48b for alignment with the male tube 18, while the clearance hole
48a is sufficient to maintain the coupler 38 in substantial
alignment with the platform 24 and the male tube 18 of the
telescoping pole 12. A sleeve portion 48c of the bushing within the
clearance hole 24a decouples rotations of the platform 24 from the
coupler 38, while a flange portion 48d decouples the rotations of
the platform 24 from the end 18a of the male tube 18.
Also illustrated here is the lengthwise clamping mechanism 54 for
fixing the rotatable hub 22 firmly against the platform 24 at a
remote location from the telescoping pole 12 so that the rotatable
mechanical arm 20 neither tips nor wobbles when loaded, yet the
mechanical arm 20 is fully rotatable relative to the platform
24.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the lengthwise
clamping mechanism 54 includes the second bolt or threaded rod
coupler 38 in cooperation the second threaded knob actuator 40. The
second decoupling mechanism 45 of the invention is interfaced
between the second knob actuator 40 and the hub 22 of the rotatable
arm 20. By example and without limitation, the second decoupling
mechanism 45 of the invention is provided as the second thrust
bearing 46 that is interfaced between the second knob actuator 40
and the hub 22 of the rotatable arm 20. The threaded end 38a of the
second coupler 38 is extended beyond the contact surface 24b of the
enlarged platform 24 at a position located remotely, i.e., spaced
away, from the telescoping pole 12.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the oversized head
38b of the second coupler 38 and a remote portion of the enlarged
platform 24 are structured in a mutually cooperative manner as to
keep the second coupler 38 from turning relative to the platform
24. For example, the second coupler 38 is a conventional bolt
having an enlarged square or hex shaped head 38b that is sized to
fit with a mating square or hex shaped socket 24c in the platform
24 opposite from the contact surface 24b. According to one
embodiment of the invention, the second coupler 38 is a rod
threaded substantially its entire length and the oversized head 38b
is a nut, such as a locking nut, that is threaded onto the second
coupler 38 at the second end 38b opposite from the first threaded
end 38a. Alternatively, the enlarged platform 24 is welded,
threaded, swaged, keyed, pinned or otherwise coupled in a
rotationally fixed relationship with the second coupler 38, whereby
the oversized head 38b may be eliminated. Any suitable structure
for coupling the second coupler 38 in a rotationally fixed
relationship with the enlarged platform 24 may be substituted
without deviating from the scope and intent of the invention.
Additionally, although the enlarged platform 24 and the second
coupler 38 are expected to include such structure for being
mutually rotationally fixed, frictional forces may adequately
substitute for expressly fixing the second coupler 38 relative to
the enlarged platform 24.
The hub 22 of the rotatable mechanical arm 20 is structured to
rotate relative to the enlarged platform 24 even while the
lengthwise clamping mechanism 54 is fully engaged for clamping the
rotatable arm 20 firmly to the platform 24. According to one
embodiment of the invention, the hub 22 of the mechanical arm 20 is
formed with the clearance passage 22c that is sized to pass the
second bolt or rod coupler 38. The second knob actuator 40 is
firmly threaded to the threaded end 38b of the second coupler 38
and thereby retains the rotatable mechanical arm 20 in firm contact
with the contact surface 24b of the enlarged platform 24 even
during rotation thereabout.
The inventor of the present invention has determined through
experimentation that, without an interface structure between the
second threaded knob actuator 40 and the platform 24 for decoupling
rotations of the mechanical arm 20 from the second actuator knob's
contact surface 40c, the second threaded knob actuator 40
invariably loosens on the threaded coupler end 38a when the arm 20
is rotated in the thread direction. Loosening of the second
threaded knob actuator 40 relieves the tension in the second
coupler 38 and releases the lengthwise clamping mechanism 54. The
rotatable mechanical arm 20 is then able to tip and wobble freely
relative to the platform 24. Such loosening of the second threaded
knob actuator 40 and consequent release of the lengthwise clamping
mechanism 54 defeats the purpose of structuring the mechanical arm
20 to rotate about the second coupler 38.
By example and without limitation, the second decoupling mechanism
45 of the invention is provided for decoupling rotation of the
rotatable mechanical arm 20 from the second actuator knob's contact
surface 40c and thereby overcoming the loosening of the lengthwise
clamping mechanism 54. The second decoupling mechanism 45 of the
invention is provided as the second thrust bearing 46 which is
installed to interface between the contact surface 40c of the
second knob actuator 40 and the first contact surface 22a of the
rotatable presentation platform's hub 22. The second thrust bearing
46 decouples the rotational drive of the hub's contact surface 22a
from the second actuator knob's contact surface 40c. The thrust
bearing 46 thus permits the hub 22 to rotate in either direction
about the second coupler 38 without affecting the firmly threaded
relationship between the second coupler's threaded end 38a and the
second threaded knob actuator 40. The thrust bearing 46 is, by
example and without limitation, any form of conventional thrust
bearing, including a pin thrust bearing, a roller thrust bearing,
and a ball thrust bearing, as discussed herein, with the central
clearance passage 46d fit over the second coupler 38, which
simultaneously serves to center the second thrust bearing 46 within
its space between the hub 22 and the second threaded knob actuator
40 and to retain it in position during operation.
The thrust bearing 46 has been determined to support any practical
load that can be generated between the respective hub and second
knob interface surfaces 22a and 40c. Intervention of the second
thrust bearing 46 has been determined to effectively decouple
rotations of the rotatable mechanical arm 20 from the second knob
contact surface 40c such that the second threaded knob actuator 40
invariably retains its threaded relationship with the threaded end
38a of the second coupler 38 when the mechanical arm 20 is rotated
in any direction, including the thread direction. The novel
interfacing of the second thrust bearing 46 between the second
actuator knob's contact surface 40c and the hub's contact surface
22a thus permits relative rotation of the mechanical arm 20, while
the integrity of the threaded relationship between the threaded end
38a of the second coupler 38 and the second threaded knob actuator
40 is maintained and effectiveness of the clamping mechanism 54
remains uncompromised.
Optionally, the bushing 48 may be interfaced between the second
contact surface 22b of the hub 22 portion of the rotatable
mechanical arm 20 and the stationary platform's contact surface 24b
for easing rotation of the mechanical arm 20 relative to the
platform 24. Alternatively, another thrust bearing 46 is
substituted for the bushing 48 between the hub's second contact
surface 22b and the platform's contact surface 24b.
FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the telescoping
pole mount 10 having the double arm mechanism 47. As illustrated
here, the double arm mechanism 47 is formed of the remote rotatable
mechanical arm 20 together with a second inner mechanical arm 58
that is rotatable relative to the end 18a of the male tube 18. The
second mechanical arm 58 is formed with a hub 58a that is
substantially the same as the hub 22 of the arm 20 illustrated in
earlier Figures and operates substantially the same. Optionally,
the bushing 48 may be interfaced between the hub 58a and the
platform 24 for easing rotation of the arm 58 about the telescoping
pole 12. The mechanical arm 58 includes a second substantially
identical hub 58b that is spaced remotely from the pole 12 by an
arm extension 58c that interconnects the remote hub 58b to the hub
58a at the pole 12. The remote rotatable mechanical arm 20 is
coupled for rotation relative to the inner arm's second hub 58b by
the lengthwise clamping mechanism 54 that fixes the remote arm's
rotatable hub 22 firmly against the inner arm's second hub 58b. By
example and without limitation, the second coupler 38 operates in
cooperation the second actuator 40 to rotatably couple the two hubs
22 and 58b. The second coupler 38 is coupled through the clearance
passage 22c through the remote hub 22 and a similar clearance
passage 58d through the inner arm's second hub 58b.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the oversized head
38b of the second coupler 38 and inner arm's second hub 58b are
structured in a mutually cooperative manner as to keep the second
coupler 38 from turning relative to the inner arm's second hub 58b.
For example, the second coupler 38 is a conventional bolt having an
enlarged square or hex shaped head 38b that is sized to fit with a
mating square or hex shaped socket 58e in the hub 58b opposite from
a contact surface 58f of the hub 58b. According to one embodiment
of the invention, the bushing 48 is optionally interfaced between
the second opposite contact surface 22b of the remote hub 22
portion of the remote mechanical arm 20 and the contact surface 58f
of the inner arm's second hub 58b for easing rotation of the remote
mechanical arm 20.
A second decoupling mechanism 45 of the invention is interfaced
between the second actuator knob 40 and the remote hub 22 for
decoupling rotation of the remote mechanical arm 20 from the second
actuator knob's contact surface 40c, thereby overcoming the
loosening of the lengthwise clamping mechanism 54. For example, a
second thrust bearing 46 is interfaced between the second actuator
40 and the hub 22 of the remote rotatable mechanical arm 20.
FIG. 10 illustrates another alternative embodiment of the
disengaging mechanism 43 of the invention for disengaging the
wedges 34, 36 from their interlocked relationship upon relief of
the lengthwise tension of the threaded rod coupler 38. As
illustrated here, the disengaging mechanism 43 is embodied as
strong tension spring 56 for disengaging the wedges 34, 36 by
pulling the farther wedge 34 away from the nearer wedge 36. As
illustrated here, the tension spring 56 is positioned between the
farther wedge 34 and an extension 34h of the nearer wedge 36 that
is extended opposite from the inner male tube 18 beyond the farther
wedge 34. By example and without limitation, the wedges 34, 36 are
formed with opposing connectors 34i, 36i with the tension spring 56
stretched therebetween. The tension spring 56 is sized having an
unstretched length that is shorter the spacing between the opposing
connectors 34i, 36i such that the tension spring 56 must be
stretched to fit between the opposing connectors 34i, 36i when the
farther wedge 34 is drawn against the nearer wedge 36. Upon relief
of the lengthwise tension of the threaded rod coupler 38, the
tension spring force in the stretched spring 56 operates against
the opposing connectors 34i, 36i of the wedges 34, 36 for pulling
apart and disengaging the two interacting wedges 34, 36 to release
the lengthwise locking mechanism 32. The tension spring 56 is
sufficiently strong that, when the tension in the lengthwise rod
coupler 38 is relieved, retraction of the stretched spring 56
overcomes the jamming force that holds the wedges 34, 36 against
the inner wall 14a of the female tube 14.
The respective lengthwise hollow cavities 34d, 36d are irrelevant,
except as means for lightening the wedges 34, 36 by removing
unnecessary material.
FIG. 12 illustrates one alternative embodiment of the telescoping
pole mount 10 of the invention wherein the relative positions of
the female and male tubes 14, 18 are reversed, with the male tube
18 being coupled to the base plate 16 and the female tube 14 being
coupled to the platform 24. An alternatively embodiment of the
lengthwise locking mechanism 32 is illustrated wherein the coupler
38 is reversed with its threaded end 38a inside the pole 12. The
threaded end 38a of the reversed coupler 38 passes through the
lengthwise clearance passage 36b in the nearer wedge 36 and is
threaded into a lengthwise threaded passage 34p that is substituted
for the lengthwise clearance passage 34b through the farther wedge
34. The farther wedge 34 is expected to be fixed to the male tube
18 by the joint 37. Accordingly, the farther wedge 34 is expected
to be welded, threaded, swaged, keyed, pinned or otherwise coupled
in a rotationally fixed relationship with the male tube 18. The
coupler 38 is further formed with an enlarged boss 38c spaced along
its trunk 38t from the threaded end 38a. The boss 38c and the
nearer wedge 36 are structured in a mutually cooperative manner as
to permit the coupler 38 to turn relative to the nearer wedge
36.
For example, the boss 38c is nearer wedge 36 relative to the socket
36c in the nearer wedge 36 as to be able to turn against a
substantially planar aft surface 36s of nearer wedge 36 opposite
from the incline surface 36a. Thus, the coupler 38 is able to pass
partially through the nearer wedge 36 and turn within it, but the
boss 38c forces the nearer wedge 36 against the farther wedge 34 by
pushing against its aft surface 36s, as indicated by the arrow p.
Alternatively, the boss 38c fits into and rotates within the socket
36c. Turning the coupler 38 in a first direction drives its
threaded end 38a deeper through the threaded passage 34p in the
farther wedge 34, which simultaneously forces the nearer and
farther wedges 34, 36 together along their inclined plane of mutual
contact 42. The cooperating wedges 34, 36 are thus forced to move
crosswise to one another and laterally of the female tube 14, as
indicated by the outwardly pointing arrows. As discussed herein,
this relative crosswise motion drives the cooperating wedges 34, 36
to jam and wedge laterally against an inner wall 14a of the female
tube 14. The cooperating wedges 34, 36 thus cause the locking
mechanism 32 to fix the male tube 18 lengthwise of the female tube
14.
The trunk 38t of the coupler 38 slides through the lengthwise bore
40a in the knob actuator 40 that is extended to eliminate the
internal female thread 40b. The threaded joint between the coupler
38 and actuator 40 is replaced by a temporary joint 60 for varying
an effective length c of the coupler 38. By example and without
limitation, the temporary joint 60 is formed by a pin 62 passing
through a threaded or clearance (shown) passage 64 in the actuator
40 and into one of a series of holes 66 formed into the coupler 38
at intervals along the trunk 38t. Other structures are also
contemplated for the temporary joint 60 and may be substituted
without deviating from the scope and intent of the invention.
Mounting Platforms
FIGS. 13 and 14 are each cross sectional views that illustrate the
invention embodied as an anchor mounting platform 100 for various
vehicle-mounted, after-market accessory devices, such as a portable
computer, satellite radio receiver, a cellular telephone, a global
positioning system (GPS) receiver, or another useful accessory
device. The novel anchor mounting platform 100 is mounted in the
open mouth 101 of a pipe, tube or other female receptacle 103 of
substantially constant interior cross-section and includes an
external mounting device 29 projected from mouth opening 101.
The mounting device 29 is illustrated here by example and without
limitation as a ball-and-socket coupler of the type disclosed by
example and without limitation in U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,885,
"Universally Positionable Mounting Device" issued to the inventor
of the present invention on Dec. 8, 1998, which is incorporated
herein by reference. Accordingly, the mounting device 29 includes a
substantially rigid base 110 about the same size or larger than the
tube's mouth opening 101. In normal use a shoulder portion 132 of
the base 110 seats against the mouth opening 101. The shoulder 132
is expected to be larger than the mouth 101 of the target tube 103.
According to one embodiment illustrated here by example and without
limitation, the external mounting device 29 includes a radially
compressible ball portion 31 formed of a resiliently deformable
material such as a nitrile rubber material. The ball portion 31 of
such a ball-and-socket coupler-type mounting device 29 is extended
from the base 110 on a substantially rigid stem or neck 35 of
smaller breadth or diameter than the ball portion 31.
The novel anchor mounting platform 100 is fixed in the tube 103 by
a laterally expandable lengthwise locking mechanism 32. According
to one embodiment of the invention, the laterally expandable
locking mechanism 32 is formed by the cooperating movable and
stationary wedges 34, 36 that are forced apart laterally by sliding
along a sharply inclined plane of mutual contact 42 that is formed
between respective inclined reaction and drive surfaces 34a, 36a
when their combined lengthwise dimension is forcefully compressed.
According to one embodiment, the cooperating wedges 34, 36 are
substantially identical in configuration so that a single wedge
form or mold is used to produce both of the cooperating wedges 34,
36. However, substantial identity between the cooperating wedges
34, 36 is not necessary and may be eliminated in a practical
application of the invention, as discussed herein below. In one
example, the stationary near wedge 36 is optionally integrated with
the base 110 of the mounting device 29 in a monolithic whole with
the shoulder portion 132 being extended laterally outwardly of the
stationary wedge 36
A lengthwise drive mechanism 52 cooperates with the laterally
expandable locking mechanism 32 for driving the movable farther
wedge 34 against the stationary nearer wedge 36 along the inclined
plane of mutual contact 42. By example and without limitation, the
lengthwise drive mechanism 52 of the invention is configured to
pull the inclined drive surface 34a of the movable farther wedge 34
against the inclined reaction surface 36a of the stationary nearer
wedge 36 along the inclined plane of mutual contact 42. According
to one embodiment of the invention, the lengthwise drive mechanism
52 of the invention is configured having a coupler 38 that is
coupled to the movable farther wedge 34 and extended through the
lengthwise clearance passage 36b in the stationary nearer wedge 36
and into the base 110 at the tube's mouth 101. As illustrated in
subsequent figures, an actuator 40 is coupled to the coupler 38
external of the tube mouth 101 for driving the coupler 38 relative
to the tube 103. In other words, the actuator 40 is structured for
operating the coupler 38 to draw the movable farther wedge 34
against the stationary nearer wedge 36 by pulling the movable
farther wedge 34 along the tube 103 toward the stationary nearer
wedge 36 at the tube's mouth 101. The respective sharply inclined
reaction and drive surfaces 34a, 36a of the cooperating wedges 34,
36 interact along a sharply inclined plane of mutual contact 42
which forces the cooperating wedges 34, 36 to move crosswise to one
another and laterally of the tube 103, as indicated by the
outwardly pointing arrows 112. This relative crosswise motion
drives the cooperating wedges 34, 36 to jam and wedge laterally
against opposing interior walls 103a and 103b of the tube 103. The
cooperating wedges 34, 36 thus cause the laterally expandable
locking mechanism 32 to fix the anchor mounting platform 100 in the
mouth 101 of the tube 103.
The actuator 40 is further structured for operating the coupler 38
to drive the movable farther wedge 34 along the tube 103 away from
the stationary nearer wedge 36 along the plane of contact 42. With
the lengthwise compression force of the coupler 38 removed, the
wedges 34, 36 retract to their normal positions central of the tube
103. The laterally expandable lengthwise locking mechanism 32 is
thereby released, which permits extraction of the anchor mounting
platform 100 from the tube 103.
The coupler 38 is expected to be operated rotationally relative to
the movable farther wedge 34. Therefore, the farther wedge 34 is
expected to be rotationally fixed relative to the tube 103, whereby
the movable farther wedge 34 is not permitted to spin in the tube
103 when the actuator 40 is operating the coupler 38. By example
and without limitation, the movable farther wedge 34 and the
interior tube wall 103a are accordingly mutually structured to be
rotationally fixed relative to one another.
FIG. 13 illustrates the novel anchor mounting platform 100 having
the cooperating wedges 34, 36 of the laterally expandable
lengthwise locking mechanism 32 structured for operating in a pipe,
tube or other female receptacle 103 having a square or otherwise
rectangular interior wall 103a. At least the movable farther wedge
34 is shaped to resist rotation relative to the rectangular
interior wall 103a when the coupler 38 is operated. By example and
without limitation, the movable farther wedge 34 includes at least
one outer contact surface 114 that is formed to compressively
interlock with one interior wall 103a of the rectangular tube 103
in a relationship that restricts the movable farther wedge 34 from
turning relative to the tube 103. By example and without
limitation, at least the one outer contact surface 114 of the
movable farther wedge 34 is substantially straight and flat to
match the straight and flat interior wall 103a of the rectangular
tube 103. Optionally, the movable farther wedge 34 is generally
rectangular in shape and sized to slide in the rectangular tube 103
without turning. The nearer wedge 36 includes its own outer contact
surface 115 that is formed to compressively interlock with another
interior wall 103b of the rectangular tube 103 opposite from the
interior wall 103a in a relationship that restricts the nearer
wedge 36 from turning relative to the tube 103. The outer contact
surfaces 114 and 115 are expected to be substantially parallel with
a longitudinal axis 118 of the anchor mounting platform 100, except
for a slight draft angle useful in manufacturing, for example when
the respective wedges 34 and 36 are die cast or injection
molded.
FIG. 14 illustrates the novel anchor mounting platform 100 having
the cooperating wedges 34, 36 of the laterally expandable
lengthwise locking mechanism 32 structured for operating in a pipe,
tube or other female receptacle 103 having a generally cylindrical
interior wall 103c. Accordingly, the outer contact surface 114 of
the movable farther wedge 34 and the generally cylindrical interior
wall 103c are mutually configured to resist relative rotation while
the movable farther wedge 34 is sized to slide in the generally
cylindrical tube 103. According to one embodiment, the outer
contact surface 114 of the movable farther wedge 34 and the
interior tube wall 103c are both configured with mating flats that
restrict the movable farther wedge 34 from turning in the otherwise
generally cylindrical tube 103.
FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the novel anchor mounting
platform 100 that illustrates another alternative configuration for
restricting the movable farther wedge 34 from turning in the tube
103 whether it is cylindrical or rectangular. Here, the cooperating
wedges 34, 36 of the laterally expandable locking mechanism 32 are
illustrated as being structured for operating in a tube 101 having
a generally cylindrical interior wall 103c. By example and without
limitation, at least the movable farther wedge 34 is configured
with a keyway 116 oriented lengthwise along the longitudinal axis
118 of the anchor mounting platform 100. Optionally, the stationary
nearer wedge 36 is similarly formed with a keyway 120 oriented
lengthwise along the longitudinal axis 118 of the anchor mounting
platform 100 and substantially aligned with the keyway 116 of the
movable farther wedge 34.
FIG. 16 is a partial cross-section view taken through the keyway
116 of the movable farther wedge 34 and, when present, the keyway
120 of the stationary nearer wedge 36. A key 122 is received into
at least the keyway 116 of the movable farther wedge 34 and, when
present, optionally the keyway 120 of the stationary nearer wedge
36, as illustrated here. The key 122 is optionally integrally
formed with the interior tube wall 103c or otherwise coupled to the
tube 103.
Alternatively, the key 122 may be free floating, that is not
attached to the tube 103. For example, the stationary nearer wedge
36 is either integrated with the base 110 of the anchor mounting
device 29 in a monolithic whole or otherwise coupled thereto in a
manner that substantially prevents independent rotation. The key
122 is extended between the keyways 116 and 120 of the respective
farther and nearer wedges 34 and 36. As illustrated here, the
cooperating wedges 34, 36 are configured to resist mutual rotation
when the coupler 38 is operated. Accordingly, the movable farther
wedge 34 is effectively restrained from rotating relative to the
stationary nearer wedge 36 by the key 122 extended therebetween.
When at least the base 110 of the mounting device 29 is restrained
from turning in the tube 103, the key 122 ties the movable farther
wedge 34 to the stationary nearer wedge 36 and restrains it from
turning as well.
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the novel
anchor mounting platform 100. As illustrated here by example and
without limitation, the cooperating wedges 34, 36 are formed with
the cooperating respective lengthwise hollow cavities 34d, 36d that
communicate with one another along the plane of contact 42.
Optionally, as disclosed herein, the disengaging mechanism 43 is
provided for disengaging the wedges 34, 36 from their interlocked
relationship. For example, the disengaging mechanism 43 is embodied
as the strong compression spring 44 for disengaging the wedges 34,
36, for example by pushing the movable farther wedge 34 away from
the stationary nearer wedge 36. For example, the compression spring
44 is positioned between the cooperating wedges 34, 36 when the
compression spring 44 is compressed to fit into the communicating
cavities 34d, 36d. As disclosed herein, the spring 44 is sized
having an uncompressed length that is longer than a combined length
of the communicating lengthwise cavities 34d, 36d in the respective
wedges 34, 36. When the movable farther wedge 34 is drawn against
the stationary nearer wedge 36 by applied lengthwise tension of the
threaded coupler 38, the compression spring 44 is compressed within
the lengthwise cavities 34d, 36d between their opposing respective
floor portions 34e, 36e. However, when effectively compressed, the
compressed length of the spring 44 does not interfere with
engagement of the inclined reaction and drive surfaces 34a, 36a
along the plane of contact 42 and consequent lateral spreading of
the wedges 34, 36 during lateral expansion and engagement of the
locking mechanism 32.
Upon relief of the lengthwise tension of the threaded coupler 38,
expansion spring force in the compressed spring 44 operates against
the opposing floor portions 34e, 36e of the wedge lengthwise
cavities 34d, 36d. The expansion spring force operates to push
apart and disengage the two interacting wedges 34, 36 to release
the laterally expandable lengthwise locking mechanism 32. The
expansion force in the spring 44 is sufficiently strong that, when
the tension in the lengthwise coupler 38 is relieved, decompression
and expansion of the spring 44 overcomes the jamming force that
holds the wedges 34, 36 against the inner walls 103a, 103b or 103c
of the tube 103. Disengagement from the tube inner walls 103a, 103b
or 103c permits the wedges 34, 36 to retract and return to their
normal positions central of the tube 103 where they slide freely.
The lateral expansion locking mechanism 32 is released, and the
anchor mounting platform 100 is free to be removed from the tube
103.
By example and without limitation, the coupler 38 is embodied as an
elongated threaded rod or bolt or other threaded fastener that is
extended lengthwise through the two cooperating wedges 34, 36. For
example, the coupler 38 is extended lengthwise through the two
cooperating wedges 34, 36 and the stem or neck 35 of the mounting
device 29. The actuator 40 is embodied as the bolt head 38b of the
coupler 38 having an actuation surface 123 on its underside that is
seated against a reaction surface 124 within either the stem
portion 35 or ball portion 31 of the ball-and-socket coupler-type
mounting device 29.
The threaded coupler 38 is extended through the stem portion 35 or
ball portion 31 of the mounting device 29 by, for example, passing
though a clearance bore 126 that is substantially aligned with the
longitudinal axis 118 of the anchor mounting platform 100 and the
wedges 34, 36. The threaded coupler 38 is further extended through
the near and far wedges 36, 34 by passing through the lengthwise
clearance passage 36b in the stationary near wedge 36, and through
another lengthwise clearance passage 34b in the movable far wedge
34. The lengthwise clearance passages 34b, 36b are substantially
aligned with the anchor mounting platform's longitudinal axis 118
and are sized to slidingly pass the threaded coupler 38
therethrough without appreciable interference and yet
simultaneously substantially center the threaded coupler 38
relative to both wedges 34, 36 and the surrounding tube 103.
A threaded drive 128 is embodied as a female thread mechanism 129
provided on the movable far wedge 34 and matched to male threads
38a formed on the threaded coupler 38. By example and without
limitation, the female thread mechanism 129 is embodied as a hex or
other nut 131 positioned adjacent to an end portion 130 of the
movable far wedge 34 and threadedly engaged with the threads 38a of
the threaded coupler 38. When embodied as the engaged nut 131, the
female thread mechanism 129 is secured against rotation when the
male threaded coupler 38 is operated. For example, the socket 34c
is embodied as a nut pocket provided in the end portion 130 of the
movable far wedge 34 in communication with the lengthwise clearance
passage 34b into the lengthwise cavity 34d and substantially
aligned therewith. The nut pocket 34c is structured to retain the
engaged threaded nut 131 and restrain it from turning when a
rotational torque is applied thereto by the threaded coupler
38.
Alternatively, the female thread mechanism 129 of the threaded
drive 128 is provided on the movable far wedge 34 by the lengthwise
female threaded passage 34p that is substituted for the lengthwise
clearance passage 34b. The threaded coupler 38 is threaded into the
lengthwise female threaded passage 34p that is substituted for the
lengthwise clearance passage 34b through the movable farther wedge
34, as disclosed herein.
Turning the actuation surface 123 of the bolt head actuator 40
against the reaction surface 124 actuates the threaded drive 128 by
rotating the threaded coupler 38 and the male threads 38a thereof
relative to the engaged nut 131, threaded passage 34p or other
female thread mechanism 129 in the end portion 130 of the movable
far wedge 34. The engaged nut 131, threaded passage 34p or other
female thread mechanism 129 is threadedly moved along the male
threads 38a of the threaded coupler 38, which generates the
lengthwise compression force in the coupler 38. The lengthwise
compression force generated in the threaded coupler 38 in turn
forces the movable farther wedge 34 lengthwise toward the
stationary nearer wedge 36 along the threaded coupler 38 and the
inside walls 103a, 103b or 103c of the tube 103. Other lengthwise
drive mechanisms 52 are also contemplated for drawing the movable
farther wedge 34 against the stationary nearer wedge 36 and may be
substituted without deviating from the scope and intent of the
invention. For example, a cam and lever mechanism is optionally
substituted for the threaded coupler 38 and bolt head actuator 40
of the lengthwise drive mechanism 52.
Forcing the cooperating farther wedge 34 lengthwise of the threaded
coupler 38 and against the nearer cooperating wedge 36 engages the
respective inclined reaction and drive surfaces 34a, 36a along the
sharply inclined plane of mutual contact 42. Interaction of the
respective sharply inclined reaction and drive surfaces 34a, 36a
along a sharply inclined plane of mutual contact 42 forces the
cooperating wedges 34, 36 to move crosswise to one another and
laterally of the tube 103, as indicated by the outwardly pointing
arrows 112. This relative crosswise motion drives the cooperating
wedges 34, 36 to jam and wedge laterally against interior walls
103a, 103b or 103c of the tube 103. Lateral expansion of the
cooperating wedges 34, 36 thus cause the locking mechanism 32 to
fix the anchor mounting platform 100 lengthwise of the tube
103.
Reversing the actuator 40 reverses the rotation of the threaded
drive 128 by reversing the male threaded coupler 38 relative to the
engaged nut 131, threaded passage 34p or other female thread
mechanism 129 and permits the movable farther wedge 34 to back away
from the stationary nearer wedge 36 along the plane of contact 42.
When the female thread mechanism 129 of the threaded drive 128 is
alternatively provided by the lengthwise threaded passage 34p
formed within the lengthwise clearance passage 34b at the end 130
of the movable far wedge 34, as disclosed herein, the reversing
rotation of the threaded coupler 38 actually drives the movable far
wedge 34 away from the stationary nearer wedge 36. With the
lengthwise force of the threaded coupler 38 removed, the movable
and stationary wedges 34, 36 return to their normal positions
central of the tube 103. The lateral expansion of the lengthwise
locking mechanism 32 is thereby released, which permits removal of
the anchor mounting platform 100 from the tube 103.
According to one embodiment of the novel anchor mounting platform
100 the base 110 of the mounting device 29 is split between the
stem portion 35 and the nearer wedge 36, which is an optional
embodiment as disclosed herein. Accordingly, the stationary nearer
wedge 36 is formed with the shoulder portion 132 of the base 110
opposite from its inclined reaction surface 36a, with the shoulder
132 being wider than the wedge 36. The shoulder 132 seats against
the tube's mouth opening 101. The base 110 of the external mounting
device 29 is optionally rotationally coupled to the shoulder
portion 132 of the wedge 36 in a manner that prohibits the mounting
device 29 from rotating independently of the stationary wedge 36.
By example and without limitation, a coupling mechanism 134 is
fixed between the base 110 of the mounting device 29 and the
shoulder 132 of the stationary wedge 36 for restricting rotation
therebetween. By example and without limitation, the coupling
mechanism 134 includes a substantially rigid disk-like plate 136
having a central clearance aperture 138 therethrough sized to pass
the threaded coupler 38. Oppositely directed projections 140 and
142 project from opposite sides of the plate 136 and seat in mating
indentations 144 and 146 in respective opposing faces of the base
110 of the mounting device 29 and the shoulder 132 of the
stationary nearer wedge 36. By example and without limitation, a
plurality of the oppositely directed projections 140 and 142 are
formed in respective rings on the opposite sides of the plate 136
and mate with respective rings of the indentations 144 and 146 in
the respective base 110 of the mounting device 29 and shoulder 132
of the stationary nearer wedge 36. Other configurations of the
coupling mechanism 134 are also contemplated for fixing the
mounting device 29 relative to the stationary nearer wedge 36 and
may be substituted without deviating from the scope and intent of
the invention. For example, a pattern of interleaved teeth and
sockets is optionally substituted for the projections 140, 142 and
mating indentations 144, 146.
FIG. 18 is an exploded assembly view of the configuration of the
novel anchor mounting platform 100 as embodied in FIG. 17.
FIG. 19 illustrates the novel anchor mounting platform 100 wherein
the female thread mechanism 129 of the threaded drive 128 is
alternatively provided on the movable far wedge 34 by the threaded
end 38a of the threaded coupler 38 being mated with the lengthwise
female threaded passage 34p that is substituted for the lengthwise
clearance passage 34b. The threaded coupler 38 is threaded into the
lengthwise threaded passage 34p through the movable farther wedge
34, as disclosed herein.
Additionally, as disclosed here the male threaded coupler 38 is
embodied as an elongated screw or bolt having a star, square, hex
or equivalent bolt head 38b which operates as the actuator 40
having the actuation surface 123 that is seated against the
reaction surface 124 within either the stem portion 35 or ball
portion 31 of the ball-and-socket coupler-type mounting device 29.
The bolt head actuator 40 is secured against rotation relative to
the mounting device 29. For example, a nut pocket 148 is provided
in either the stem portion 35 or ball portion 31 in communication
with the clearance bore 126 though the mounting device 29 and
substantially aligned therewith. The nut pocket 148 is structured
to retain the bolt head actuator 40 and restrain it from turning
when a rotational torque is applied thereto by rotation of the
mounting device 29 relative to the stationary near wedge 36.
Here, the mounting device 29 is rotatable about the longitudinal
axis 118 of the anchor mounting platform 100 independently of the
stationary near wedge 36, whereby the mounting device 29 is rotated
to operate to the bolt head actuator 40, i.e. bolt head 38b, which
activates the threaded drive 128. The bolt head actuator 40 turns
the coupler 38 relative to the engaged nut 131, threaded passage
34p or other female thread mechanism 129 to generate the rotational
torque that to force the movable far wedge 34 toward the stationary
near wedge 36 along the inclined plane of mutual contact 42.
Accordingly, a rotational slip mechanism 150, such as a slip
bushing or thrust bearing, is positioned between the respective
opposing faces of the base 110 of the mounting device 29 and the
shoulder 132 of the stationary nearer wedge 36. The slip mechanism
150 permits the mounting device 29 to be easily rotated about the
longitudinal axis 118 of the anchor mounting platform 100
independently of the stationary near wedge 36, while the near wedge
36 remains stationary relative to the tube 103 with its shoulder
132 seated firmly against the tube mouth 101. Optionally, as
illustrated by example and without limitation, the slip mechanism
150 cooperates with the indentations 144 and 146 in the respective
base 110 of the mounting device 29 and shoulder 132 of the
stationary nearer wedge 36. Other configurations of the slip
mechanism 150 are also contemplated for permitting the mounting
device 29 to rotated relative to the stationary nearer wedge 36 and
may be substituted without deviating from the scope and intent of
the invention.
Alternatively, the threaded coupler 38 is reversed such that the
bolt head 38b is fit in the nut pocket 34c (shown in FIG. 17) in
the end portion 130 of the movable far wedge 34, and one of either
the stem portion 35 or ball portion 31 of the mounting device 29 is
formed with the mating lengthwise threaded passage 34p.
Accordingly, the mounting device 29 operates as the actuator 40 to
pull the threaded coupler 38 along the longitudinal axis 118 of the
anchor mounting platform 100 toward the stationary near wedge 36
along the inclined plane of contact 42, as generally disclosed
herein. Again, the mounting device 29 is rotatable independently of
the stationary near wedge 36 by means of the slip mechanism 150
therebetween.
FIG. 20 is an exploded assembly view of the configuration of the
novel anchor mounting platform 100 as embodied in FIG. 19.
FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 each illustrate that, when the slip mechanism
150 is positioned between the respective opposing faces of the base
110 of the mounting device 29 and the shoulder 132 of the
stationary nearer wedge 36, the threaded drive 128 can be reversed.
For example, the threaded coupler 38 is reversed such that the bolt
head 38b is restrained in the movable far wedge 34, while the
threaded end 38a of the reversed coupler 38 is mated with the
engaged nut 131, threaded passage 34p or other female thread
mechanism 129 formed in the mounting device 29. For example, FIG.
21 illustrates the threaded coupler 38 being passed through the
lengthwise clearance passage 34b in the movable far wedge 34, and
the bolt head 38b being fit in the nut pocket 34c in the far wedge
end portion 130. The nut pocket 148 is provided in either the stem
portion 35 or ball portion 31 of the mounting device 29 and in
communication with the clearance bore 126 and substantially aligned
therewith. The threaded drive 128 is provided by the male threaded
end 38a of the threaded coupler 38 being engaged with the engaged
nut 131, threaded passage 34p or other female thread mechanism 129.
Here, for example, the thread mechanism 129 is embodied as the
engaged hex nut 131 positioned in the nut pocket 148. The nut
pocket 148 is structured to retain the engaged nut 131 and restrain
it from turning when a rotational torque is applied thereto by
rotation of the mounting device 29 relative to the stationary near
wedge 36.
Accordingly, the mounting device 29 operates as the actuator 40 to
pull the threaded coupler 38 along the longitudinal axis 118 of the
anchor mounting platform 100 toward the stationary near wedge 36
along the inclined plane of contact 42, as generally disclosed
herein. The mounting device 29 operates as the actuator 40 and
includes the actuation surface 123 seated against the shoulder 132
portion of the stationary nearer wedge 36, which operates as the
reaction surface 124 for the mounting device 29. Again, the
mounting device 29 is rotatable independently of the stationary
near wedge 36 by means of the slip mechanism 150 therebetween.
Alternatively, FIG. 22 illustrates the thread mechanism 129 of the
threaded drive 128 is embodied as a lengthwise threaded passage 154
positioned in the clearance bore 126 formed in either the ball
portion 31 or stem portion 35 of the mounting device 29. The
threads 38a of the threaded coupler 38 are mated with the threaded
passage 154. Accordingly, the mounting device 29 operates as the
actuator 40 against the shoulder 132 portion of the stationary
nearer wedge 36, which operates as the reaction surface 124. The
actuator 40 operates to pull the threaded coupler 38 along the
longitudinal axis 118 of the anchor mounting platform 100 toward
the stationary near wedge 36 along the inclined plane of contact
42, as generally disclosed herein. Again, the mounting device 29 is
rotatable independently of the stationary near wedge 36 by means of
the slip mechanism 150 therebetween.
As further illustrated here, the optional disengaging mechanism 43
disclosed herein is provided for disengaging the wedges 34, 36 from
their interlocked relationship. By example and without limitation,
the disengaging mechanism 43 is embodied as the strong compression
spring 44 is compressed to fit into the communicating cavities 34d,
36d for disengaging the wedges 34, 36 by pushing the movable
farther wedge 34 away from the stationary nearer wedge 36. As
disclosed herein, the spring 44 is sized having an uncompressed
length that is longer than a combined length of the communicating
lengthwise cavities 34d, 36d in the respective wedges 34, 36. When
the movable farther wedge 34 is drawn against the stationary nearer
wedge 36 by applied lengthwise tension of the threaded coupler 38,
the compression spring 44 is compressed within the lengthwise
cavities 34d, 36d between their opposing respective floor portions
34e, 36e. However, the compressed length of the spring 44 does not
interfere with engagement of the inclined reaction and drive wedge
surfaces 34a, 36a along the plane of contact 42 and consequent
lateral spreading of the wedges 34, 36 during lateral expansion and
engagement of the locking mechanism 32.
FIG. 23 is an end view of the novel anchor mounting platform 100
embodied for use in a generally cylindrical pipe, tube or other
female receptacle 103.
FIG. 24 is a side perspective view of the novel anchor mounting
platform 100 embodied for use in a generally cylindrical pipe, tube
or other female receptacle 103.
FIGS. 25 and 26 are cross-sectional view of the novel anchor
mounting platform that illustrate an alternative embodiment having
an alternative coupling mechanism 160 provided directly between the
base 110 of the mounting device 29 and the shoulder 132 of the
stationary wedge 36 for restricting rotation therebetween. By
example and without limitation, the coupling mechanism 160 is
embodied here as projections 162 projected from either the face of
the mounting device base 110 or the shoulder 132 of the stationary
nearer wedge 36 (shown), which seat in mating indentations 164 in
the opposing shoulder 132 of the stationary nearer wedge 36 or the
face of the mounting device base 110 (shown). By example and
without limitation, a plurality of the oppositely directed
projections 162 and mating indentations 164 are formed in
respective rings on the respective shoulder 132 of the stationary
nearer wedge 36 and base 110 of the mounting device 29. The
alternative coupling mechanism 160 is alternatively inverted with
the as projections 162 projected from either the face of the
mounting device base 110, and the mating indentations 164 in the
opposing shoulder 132 of the stationary nearer wedge 36. Other
configurations of the coupling mechanism 160 are also contemplated
for fixing the mounting device 29 relative to the stationary nearer
wedge 36 and may be substituted without deviating from the scope
and intent of the invention. For example, a pattern of interleaved
teeth and sockets is optionally substituted for the projections 162
and mating indentations 164 formed between the mating faces of the
mounting device base 110 and the opposing shoulder 132 of the
stationary nearer wedge 36.
FIGS. 27 and 28 are exploded assembly views of the configuration of
the alternative novel anchor mounting platform 100 as embodied in
FIGS. 25 and 26, wherein the alternative coupling mechanism 160 is
provided directly between the base 110 of the mounting device 29
and the shoulder 132 of the stationary wedge 36 for restricting
rotation therebetween. FIG. 27 is an upward perspective view of the
exploded assembly of the alternative novel anchor mounting platform
100 that more clearly shows the coupling mechanism 160 embodied by
example and without limitation as having the projections 162
projected from the shoulder 132 of the stationary nearer wedge 36
for seating in the mating indentations 164 in the opposing face of
the base 110 of the mounting device 29.
FIG. 28 is a downward perspective view of the exploded assembly of
the alternative novel anchor mounting platform 100 that more
clearly shows the coupling mechanism 160 embodied by example and
without limitation as having the mating indentations 164 formed in
the opposing face of the base 110 of the mounting device 29, and
having the projections 162 projected from the shoulder 132 of the
stationary nearer wedge 36 for seating in the mating indentations
164.
While the preferred embodiment of the invention has been
illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various
changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention. For example, materials may be substituted
for the different components of the flexible support apparatus of
the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. Therefore, the inventor makes the following claims.
* * * * *